Voice Disorders encompass a wide variety of conditions from different aetiological
groups like infective, inflammatory, structural, traumatic, mass lesions – benign (e.g.
Vocal Nodules and malignant, neurological, endocrinal, vascular, autoimmune to
name a few. The management involves a thorough understanding of the laryngeal
function, diagnostic evaluation with attention to detail and a multidisciplinary team
approach in treatment.
How common are Voice Disorders?
It is estimated that between 3 – 10% of the general population are affected by voice
disorders. The main symptom in people with voice disorders is hoarseness or dysphonia,
which describes an alteration in voice quality.
Which groups of individuals are generally affected?
Voice disorders can affect any individual but this is of particular concern in ‘voice
professionals’ the term used to designate those groups of individuals who depend on their
voice for their profession like teachers, singers, lawyers, trainers, lecturers and even
doctors!
When should I see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you have been hoarse for longer than three weeks, particularly
if you are or have been a smoker. Most cases of hoarseness are due to viral infections
(which do NOT require antibiotics) or overuse of the voice. The problem will get better over
a few days and your doctor may advise you to:-
• rest your voice and use it gently and sparingly
• drink plenty of liquids, particularly water, avoid alcohol, tea and coffee.
• stop smoking (preferably forever!)
• take simple painkillers regularly, if necessary, (Paracetamol or soluble Aspirin )
• start or increase Antacid medication if acid reflux is thought to be a factor in your
case.
However for some people the problems persist and it is necessary to see a voice specialist.
What happens in the multidisciplinary Voice Clinic? How are Voice Disorders diagnosed?
The evaluation and assessment of an individual with voice disorders is carried out by the
ENT Consultant using special equipment often requiring input from a Speech therapist. The
specialist equipment for Laryngeal evaluation records HD video and slow motion images
of the voice box using stroboscopic light. On occasions the accurate diagnosis is
established after Speech evaluation and specific imaging and blood tests.
How are Voice Disorders treated?
There are three general approaches to the management of voice problems: medical,
surgical, and behavioural including speech therapy. It is often the case however, that
optimal treatment requires the use of a combination of treatment types.
Medical Management
The medical approach to the treatment of voice disorders refers to non-invasive
techniques. Laryngeal problems in which the vocal cords demonstrate redness, swelling or
irritation (e.g. laryngopharyngeal reflux) can be medically treated. Treatment of acid reflux
plays an important role.
Surgical Management (Phonosurgery)
There are many voice box (laryngeal) conditions like vocal fold cysts, polyps, swelling
(oedema) and other benign, precancerous and malignant conditions are treated
surgically.
Speech Therapy and Behavioural Management
The behavioural approach consists of voice therapy which aims at restoring the best voice
possible within the patient’s anatomical, physiological and psychological capacity.
Visit our voice clinic
Clinics:
150 Harley Street
▪ Monday 9:30 am — 12.30pm
Spire London East (Roding Hospital)
▪ Tuesday 6:00 — 8:00pm
▪ Wednesday 10:30 — 12:00pm
▪ Saturday 9:30 — 12:30pm
The Holly Private Hospital
▪ Tuesday 2:00 — 5:00pm
▪ Wednesday 6pm — 7:30pm (alt)
Nuffield Essex Hospital —
▪ Friday 10:30 -12.30 (1st,3rd & 5th)
For Clinic Appointments please contact Private Secretary (Kim): 0208 7097867
Mr. Abir Bhattacharyya, Consultant ENT Surgeon, Royal College Surgical Tutor &
Training Programme Director (Surgery) at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London has
a special interest in management of Voice Disorders. He runs a Voice Clinic at Whipps
Cross University Hospital and is faculty on national and international Phonosurgery,
Voice and Laryngology courses. He has edited postgraduate textbooks on
Laryngology and written undergraduate ENT textbooks for GPs, junior doctors and
medical students.
Recent Comments